Giant NY‑style slices and whole pies with a value slice combo, but service inconsistencies, sanitation complaints, and uneven slice quality mean better experiences come from ordering whole pies.
Upper Crust Pizza delivers strong food quality with crisp, praised slices that build loyal regulars, but inconsistency between whole pies and slices, combined with recent service and sanitation concerns, prevents a higher grade. Food safety issues and variable staff professionalism further limit reliability, while the casual setting offers convenience rather than destination appeal.
The room feels casual and bustling in a classic slice-shop way: order at the counter, grab a booth, and tackle a slice that is almost comically large. Fans rave about crisp crust and tangy sauce, while some recent visits cite service missteps and variable slice quality. One diner put it simply: "The slice was huge and worth the drive," but another wished it had been less dry. The cooking leans straightforward NY-style rather than trendy—think foldable jumbo slices, whole pies, garlic knots, calzones, and wings. Reviews suggest the best results come from ordering a whole pie fresh, since reheated slices can fluctuate between perfectly crisp and under- or over-done. Portions drive value, especially the slice-and-drink combo that regulars swear by. Families do well here thanks to familiar kid-pleasers like cheese or pepperoni slices, garlic knots, and simple pastas. There is no confirmed gluten-free crust, and several reviews mention allergy and cross-contact concerns; stick to straightforward items and consider whole pies to control toppings and doneness.
Area vibe: Busy Grant Rd corridor near University districts; casual, student-friendly, drive-by traffic.
Safety: Generally active arterial; mixed maintenance; typical urban vigilance advised at night.
What's nearby: Near UArizona and neighborhood services; convenient for quick bites and takeout.